Trick-or-Treat Safety

Halloween is Tuesday, Oct. 31

Friday, October 20, 2017

Halloween is Tuesday, Oct. 31. In Virginia Beach, Trick-or-Treat begins at dusk and ends at 8 p.m.for children 12 years of age and younger.

If you are passing out treats, please turn your porch light on so children will know they are welcome. If you are not passing out treats, please turn your porch light off. Other safety tips for trick-or-treaters include:

Wear light-colored clothing that is labeled flame-resistant or flame-retardant and is short enough to prevent tripping. Also, add reflectors or glow-in-the-dark safety stickers for higher visibility.

Make sure your children can see clearly through face masks, or use face paint or makeup instead of a mask.

Carry a lightweight flashlight in case one is needed along with a fully charged cell phone, or a personal two-way radio in case of an emergency.

Join in the fun and accompany young children, especially if they are under the age of 8. If you cannot accompany them, have them go with a group of other children. NEVER let them go alone.

Watch out for traffic and only cross at corners. Be careful not to cross between parked cars.

Let your family know ahead of time what route and streets you plan to travel and what time you expect to return home.

Stay within your neighborhood and visit only the homes where you know the people.